Tarot for Beginners: How to Read a 3-Card Spread

The Gateway to Divination

Tarot can seem intimidating with its 78 cards and complex symbolism. But you don't need to be a grandmaster to get value from a reading. The 3-Card Spread is the perfect place to start.

Why 3 Cards?

Three is a magic number. It represents beginning, middle, and end; thesis, antithesis, and synthesis. It's complex enough to tell a story, but simple enough to not overwhelm you.

Common Variations

The beauty of the 3-card spread is its versatility. You can assign any meaning to the positions. Here are the most popular ones:

1. Past / Present / Future

The classic. Card 1 shows the root of the problem. Card 2 is where you are now. Card 3 is the likely outcome if nothing changes.

2. Situation / Obstacle / Advice

Great for problem-solving. Card 1 defines the issue. Card 2 shows what's blocking you. Card 3 tells you how to overcome it.

3. Mind / Body / Spirit

A check-in for your holistic health. What is occupying your thoughts? how is your physical energy? What does your soul need right now?

How to Read

Don't just read the book meanings. Look at the images. How do they interact? Is the figure in Card 1 looking at Card 2? Trust your intuition. The cards are just mirrors for what you already know.